Usuhs

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Erald Coil said:
My supplemental arrived at USUHS admissions today.

1) Air Force
2) Navy
3) Army

I'm concerned my chances of getting into USUHS will be hurt by my preference for Air Force (7 years enlisted ANG medic). We'll see... I read early in this thread that AF was most competitive, but later I'm not seeing much preference for it. Any new thoughts on this?

Thanks to all for posting so much useful info in this thread! I didn't read it ALL, but THANKS! LOL 🙂
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Your preference for a branch wont hurt your chances unless you refuse to do any other branch. AF can be more competetive because it has fewer spots and it tends to be seen as the "easier" military branch and attracts those with little experience. I have been surprised by the lack of AF enthusiasm from this year's applicants as well...not that I mind.

From what I have gathered in speaking with grads and current students you are firsth accepted into the school. At that point you either get a spot in your desired branch or if that branch is full, you have the option of waiting for a spot in that branch or accepting a spot in another branch if there is one available. Army tends to fill up last from what I have been told.
 
Last year the preference was actually for Navy. The Navy waitlist for my incoming class ('13) was twice as long as the waitlists for the other two - or so I was told. From what I understand, when they offer you an acceptance, if the branch you want is open, then you get it, if not they offer you a spot in a branch that is - so just hope that it doesn't fill before your acceptance 😛 Good luck! :luck:
 
what you rank first is what you will get if you get accepted. they don't really look at your 2nd choice at all
 
mslall said:
what you rank first is what you will get if you get accepted. they don't really look at your 2nd choice at all
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Unless what you ranked first already has a long waitlist and your second choice has 10 slots still available. (the only way you are locked into one service at any point in the application process is if you are one of the rotc/academy/active duty prior service people)
 
Erald Coil said:
My supplemental arrived at USUHS admissions today.

1) Air Force
2) Navy
3) Army

I'm concerned my chances of getting into USUHS will be hurt by my preference for Air Force (7 years enlisted ANG medic). We'll see... I read early in this thread that AF was most competitive, but later I'm not seeing much preference for it. Any new thoughts on this?

Thanks to all for posting so much useful info in this thread! I didn't read it ALL, but THANKS! LOL 🙂
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Why don't you just put them all as number one if you would take whatever? If you really want USAF then put that first and the other two second. If you get waitlisted you could call and see if switching would help your chances....I have no idea if it does (I was waitlisted USAF but later got acceptance) I wouldn't worry too too much about it and like I said if you have concerns and won't be upset with another service then rank them all the same.
 
georgetown smp....med classes graded against the med students but only a master's...maybe usuhs in the near future
 
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yes^2...pm me if you want to know more about the program - not important enough to bog down the thread
 
I had down:

1st: Army 1
2nd: Navy 2
3rd: AF 3
4th: PHS 3

I was going to put a 1 next to each service but the arrow said that 3 meant "not my first choice but I would accept this branch if offered".

I felt that putting a 1 next to each branch would be seen as dishonest, because if you are really that gung ho about each branch then wouldn't you check, "no preference"?

Of course I can still fill out another preference sheet and change it. I know the official line is that the preferences don't affect you odds of getting in, but I worry that it might make a difference.
 
NavyFP said:
1- about 25%
2- about 5-10% (and its not just EMTs, but they are the most common)
3- about 60%



Yes, the nausea and laughs are the extremes.



It is not so much the unoriginality as the embellishment.
"I watched him/her wince as they placed the IV while he/she was lying there helplessly......"
They often read like a dime store novel.

Typically 3 people will review a record. I can't say I have allowed a personal statement to have swayed me significantly either way. I would not say a bad personal statement automatically gets shoved to the NO pile.



I am looking for a bit of pragmatism with some passion. Being a physician is a complex blend of book smarts, street smarts, drive, and compassion. Most of that can be gleened by what you have done (jobs, volunteer work, hobbies) and your education (GPA, MCATs). The PS can fill in some of the gaps that are not in the rest of the application.



If I were to write a PS now it would be framed like this:

I have had an interest in the health system for however long (but not tooo long or it was solidified at a certain time). I truly became exposed to the system at x event. I watched the team and felt my personal characteristics best fit in the role of a physician. I believe physicians should be this and that, and I demonstrate those attributes in this way. My goals as a physician are x (but don't say you want to cure cancer), but I recognize that as I progress through training (ie med school) I may find an even more suitable area for my talents.
The keys are not to put too many adjectives. It can have some emotion, but it should not be dripping with it. We all had to suffer with creative writing in college and it often shows in the PS. I believe many of the stories have been impacted by those classes. Keep it real and short. If you have a quality or talent that makes you unique and could somehow be related to medicine, express that.

Most applicants are generally smart and good at science. These are not going to set you apart. It is hard to remember what I had in mine, but I think I talked about how learning customer service at a fast food restaurant would apply to the practice of medicine. I doubt anyone else would have made that analogy.

Brevity is preferable. Remember, ADCOM members have to read these. How much of their time do you want them to spend on this one section of your application. Don't make it War and Peace.

These are my opinions. I am not a touchy/feely guy. Most on ADCOMs are not either. Are you willing to try to play to the few that are?
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This is very good advice. 👍
 
How does a degree from USUHS affect you in the civilian world. I am a Pilot in the Army, was prior enlisted, and have 6 years in. I'll have 8 years in before I apply, but I'm just curious to what would be the difference between a degree from USUHS and a civilian med school for employment in the civilian world. I have options, because there is HPSP, and I also have 4 years free tuition if I go to UW madison, and gi-bill to supplement, but I'm just not sure if I would want to go to USUHS if my degree would be seen as second class to employers, I'm gonna finish my 20 in the military, but will be 42 when I get out, so that's my long term concern. If anyone has some insight it will be appreciated.

Thanks
 
inteleric1983 said:
How does a degree from USUHS affect you in the civilian world. I am a Pilot in the Army, was prior enlisted, and have 6 years in. I'll have 8 years in before I apply, but I'm just curious to what would be the difference between a degree from USUHS and a civilian med school for employment in the civilian world. I have options, because there is HPSP, and I also have 4 years free tuition if I go to UW madison, and gi-bill to supplement, but I'm just not sure if I would want to go to USUHS if my degree would be seen as second class to employers, I'm gonna finish my 20 in the military, but will be 42 when I get out, so that's my long term concern. If anyone has some insight it will be appreciated.

Thanks
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As far as employment is concerned I dont see how there would be any difference, by the time you have retired you will be board certified with several years experience and very marketable for employment. Maybe if your goal is to be in academics at a big name program I dont see how it will be an issue...maybe it is my pre-med ignorance...but I know a couple physicians/surgeons from USUHS now working great civilian careers both in academics and private practice.

I dont think many docs have a hard time finding a job as it is so I wouldnt worry about where your degree is from. Besides, USU is a great school.

I think the easy decision would be to take the free ride at UW Madison so you can do whatever residency you want and dont have to worry about GMO tours if you decide to pursue a competative specialty. USUHS and HPSP grads cant always get their residency of choice right out of school.

If you still want to get back on active duty then do FAP or sign up post-residency so you have options...who knows, maybe after 4 years out of the military you wont be so keen on getting back in.
 
inteleric1983 said:
How does a degree from USUHS affect you in the civilian world. I am a Pilot in the Army, was prior enlisted, and have 6 years in. I'll have 8 years in before I apply, but I'm just curious to what would be the difference between a degree from USUHS and a civilian med school for employment in the civilian world. I have options, because there is HPSP, and I also have 4 years free tuition if I go to UW madison, and gi-bill to supplement, but I'm just not sure if I would want to go to USUHS if my degree would be seen as second class to employers, I'm gonna finish my 20 in the military, but will be 42 when I get out, so that's my long term concern. If anyone has some insight it will be appreciated.

Thanks
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In your case, I'd argue that you should go to USUHS (bias aside). B/c a) you're set on a army career, b) you'd make great pay while you're there, per the new save pay rule which allows you to retain your prior basic pay as an O (which helps a lot! especially if you're trying to support a family, or if you just have expensive hobbies) and c) the numbers work out nicely.

Say you do 5 years of training after med school (surgery, or medicine+fellowship, whatever) + 7 years payback + 8 years (prior service) = 20 , tack on the 4 from USUHS = 24 years at retirement. not too shabby.

As far as job prospects go, at that point, I think where you went to med school would be almost irrelevant. Where you trained and your performance as a physician, prior experiences, etc would be much more relevant. I've seen USUHS folks get all sorts of jobs, from academic to admin positions at major metro hospitals, to small local groups . . .it's hard to generalize and all depends on how well you prep yourself.
 
Thanks for the info guys.

DrMetal: I am biased in favor of USUHS. The benefits are unparalleled, and I have been through a bunch of military schools, and like how things run. I'm already invested in the Army so I intend to retire with them either route. Based on what you said I really think Usu is the place for me. I have no concern about academia, just want to continue practicing without any hiccups on the outside. Now I just need to finish my prereqs take the MCAT, and get in.🙂
 
In response to the (much earlier) questions about submitting applications and getting into USUHS...

I was really late with the application process: didn't submit primaries until late August/early September last year. Submitted my secondary the end of September. Application wasn't finalized until December. Interviewed in January and got accepted mid March with first choice service, no wait list. So there is hope.

Good luck to everyone applying!
 
teacherman84 said:
take the free ride at UW Madison so you can do whatever residency you want and dont have to worry about GMO tours if you decide to pursue a competative specialty. USUHS and HPSP grads cant always get their residency of choice right out of school.
This can be an issue but as mentioned in competative specialties. It is also highly variable based on the year. This year may be a little dicey since there are a bunch of GMO's and since the USAF uses a merit based poitn system, medical students who would be competative applicants for a civlian residency could potentially not match as a result. The good news is that if you are committed you will often end up training in your specialty of choice provided you are a reasonably competative applicant in the field. Quite frankly the thing that sucks the most is that I have to go on interviews for civilian programs prior to knowing whetehr or not the military will even select me to train in my field of choice. If I don't match then all that money spent is lost and I may have to do it again next year. I wouldn't say these are deal breakers but certainly make things interesting.
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usuhs13 said:
In response to the (much earlier) questions about submitting applications and getting into USUHS...

I was really late with the application process: didn't submit primaries until late August/early September last year. Submitted my secondary the end of September. Application wasn't finalized until December. Interviewed in January and got accepted mid March with first choice service, no wait list. So there is hope.

Good luck to everyone applying!
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Same timeline for me. Would you mind PM me your stats? Would really appreciate it.
 
Hey everyone,

I am currently finishing up my senior year in college and am seriously considering USU medical school. However, I am a civilian and my family has no extensive background in the military. My father is very encouraging of the military from his experience as a Second Lieutenant, fighting for the South Vietnam during the Vietnam War; but he has not served in the United States. Though there are a lot I can benefit from USU and joining the military, I want real, concrete experience to help me decide if this is the right path (and prove that I know what I am getting myself into). I will have at least a year before I apply (1 more year to get my Masters), and am wondering if you have any recommendations or contacts to help me get hand on experience of military life especially what it will be like to be a military physician before I actually apply.

Thanks.
 
cotermstudent said:
Hey everyone,

I am currently finishing up my senior year in college and am seriously considering USU medical school. However, I am a civilian and my family has no extensive background in the military. My father is very encouraging of the military from his experience as a Second Lieutenant, fighting for the South Vietnam during the Vietnam War; but he has not served in the United States. Though there are a lot I can benefit from USU and joining the military, I want real, concrete experience to help me decide if this is the right path (and prove that I know what I am getting myself into). I will have at least a year before I apply (1 more year to get my Masters), and am wondering if you have any recommendations or contacts to help me get hand on experience of military life especially what it will be like to be a military physician before I actually apply.

Thanks.
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There is a lot of great information about USUHS and the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) on the Military Medicine Forum, especially in the stickies.
 
cotermstudent said:
Hey everyone,

I am currently finishing up my senior year in college and am seriously considering USU medical school. However, I am a civilian and my family has

Thanks.
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You don't have to have any prior service nor affiliation with the military to go to USUHS; half of the entering class is non-prior.

Go to the USUHS website (www.usuhs.mil) and read the catalog (in the admissions section). It explains everything about the school, the curriculum, the military obligation, pay, etc etc. If you're still interested and want to apply, would advise doing so early in the cycle as the school runs on a rolling admissions basis.

Also, you'll have to prioritize which service (Army, Navy, AF) you want to join (it can be changed as you go along in the admissions process, but you do have to have an initial list). So it would behoove you to start thinking about that. Each service has it's pros/cons (Navy-closest to the best beer and fish tacos , Army-more straight thru training, AF-best golf courses) . . .

Then read up here and do extensive searching, read the Pros/Cons stickie. If you read the entirety of the 'cons' stickie, do so with a bottle of whiskey, it'll help you get through it.

Also, it's nice that your father is encouraging, but remember: His experience as an infantryman in the south vietnamese army during the Vietnam War is probably very different from the experience that you would obtain in the United States military! Just a hunch . . . Do it (or don't do it) for your own reasons.

good luck!
 
Hey DrMetal - how is the metal scene in Bethesda? I got accepted to AF last week - very excited. The funny thing is, my second choice career is metal band! I worked in NYC and played in a metal band- tried to make it and didn't, but I will always play. I'm thinking that I wont have time for metalling at USUHS, what with I hear that med school takes some effort 🙂 I play guitar - Bodom, LoG, Killswitch, all that awesome stuff!

Also, sorry I haven't been following this discussion too closely, but someone above was asking about branch preferences etc. I put Navy as my first choice this year, and I got waitlisted. I figured (from reading these forums, thanks SDN!) that Navy was filling up fast. So I wrote an email to the school, saying that just incase I was waitlisted because Navy had filled up, I would be more than happy to take an AF spot. This seemed like a long shot since AF is usually more competitive (from what I understand, again from these forums). 2 days later, I get the call telling me I can take an AF spot or stay in the Navy waitlist! Best day of my life - took the AF spot. Call me Captain! (Well not just yet... 🙂

Anyways, metal and medicine rule! Hail Satan...and Hippocrates! (haha- not really the satan thing. I'm pretty sure all the satanists are Celine Dion fans)
 
Also, your avatar looks like a combination of the Appetite cover Axel skull and the A7X bat-skull. Awesome. Let's start a Motley Crue cover band. Except I want to be Tommy.
 
0919mmk said:
Also, your avatar looks like a combination of the Appetite cover Axel skull and the A7X bat-skull. Awesome. Let's start a Motley Crue cover band. Except I want to be Tommy.
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It is the A7X bat-skull (circa Halloween). To be honest, I haven't had a chance to check out the metal scene too much here (yes, it's true what they say about med school, it consumes you!). But, am looking forward to catching some shows in '10 when Avenged, BFMV, and the Rockstar Mayhem gig go back on tour! Let me know when you get in state . . . Oh and kiss your bandmates goodbye, it's virtually impossible to keep a band going in med school, you'll just have to be a lonely solo guitarist like myself 🙂. There's actually a few shredders in my class, we just need a drummer.

Yeah, it seems like Navy has been the most popular service at USUHS, during the last two cycles. I was on the waitlist last year (had to go Navy per prior service), then got it in May. Army seems to be the least popular, probably b/c of the two current ground wars we're fighting. But, I hope people keep in mind that no matter what service they join, they could still have to deploy, and deploy a lot, depending on the winds of change. If **** goes down in the Korean AOR or with Iran, those could definitely be Navy and AF-centric wars. You just never know, so you gotta deal with the uncertainty.

Anyway, USUHS is a great school, good people, good times, congrats on your acceptance, see ya in the Fall.
 
Alright...I might be on the wrong thread, but I'm new to this whole forum thing. Here's the deal: This app cycle, I took a huge gamble with USUHS. I submitted my secondary in early August. The catch is that I didn't have my MCAT score because I took the exam on August 14. I figured I would do well on the exam and wanted to get my app in early. Unfortunately, I guess I got a bit ahead of myself. I didn't do very well on the MCAT (low to mid 20's). I did too much content review and not enough practicing. I also know that I can make some vast improvements on the MCAT.

I guess what I am trying to say is that I screwed myself over. I'm sure I'm not the first one to do such a thing. I have great ECs and a good gpa (3.7 cumulative and 3.55 sci). I know you all aren't ADCOMs, but I was hoping to hear if some of the USUHS students have classmates in this situation.

I haven't lost all hope, but I would assume there is a 95% chance USUHS won't take me this year. My plan is to take a year off and retake the MCAT and get my EMT this summer. I will work as an EMT and ski for a while, then re-apply to USUHS. All that background brings me to these questions: Assuming I bring my MCAT up to 30+, do I still have a shot at getting into USUHS? Are any of you successful re-applicants? Do you know of any successful re-applicants?

Thank you so much for your help! I really appreciate it!
 
bfarn30 said:
Alright...I might be on the wrong thread, but I'm new to this whole forum thing. Here's the deal: This app cycle, I took a huge gamble with USUHS. I submitted my secondary in early August. The catch is that I didn't have my MCAT score because I took the exam on August 14. I figured I would do well on the exam and wanted to get my app in early. Unfortunately, I guess I got a bit ahead of myself. I didn't do very well on the MCAT (low to mid 20's).
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Yeah, a low to mid 20s MCAT is probably a show stopper, even with a high gpa. You probably just had a bad test day, study up for it again, and indeed practice the actual test. The MCAT is all about practice. Would recommend doing many passages and actual full-length tests. Also, check out the SDN threads on the MCAT, plenty of do's/dont's, anectodal stories, enough to make your head explode . . . some of it's helpful.

And you didn't take that huge of a gamble , so don't worry about it much. Worst thing they can do is reject your application. I dont think it'll have any bearing on your future application. good luck . . .
 
Hey SDN,

I have a question about USUHS, and this sticky seems relevant.

Currently I am a sophomore by year and a senior by credit; i will be graduating in May 2011. I am interested in doing military medicine (specifically the MD/PhD program at USUHS); lately I have considered joining the national guard within the next two weeks to help pay for my growing undergraduate tuition & fees.

1A) Is this a prudent idea? I am a McNair scholar so summer 2010 is devoted to doing research on my campus (June - beginning of August). Summer 2011 I am heading to the Amazon with Canadian docs to deliver medical supplies to a village in Peru (2 weeks in June). I am just wondering if basic training will interfere or not with time.

B) If it is feasible to go this route, how will that affect me when I apply to USUHS (I will be applying spring 2011, & I graduate in May).

AND

C) I have the option to continue staying at school one more year and graduating in spring 2012. This will make me eligible for a 2-year ROTC scholarship.

Are the NG/ROTC routes even good ideas? or should I wait until USUHS to join the military? Any input would be much appreciated


:luck: WhiskeyDoc :luck:
------------------------------------------------
When Life Sucks, have some Single-Malt Ethanol
 
whiskeydoc said:
Hey SDN,

Summer 2011 I am heading to the Amazon with Canadian docs to deliver medical supplies to a village in Peru (2 weeks in June). I am just wondering if basic training will interfere or not with time.
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Damn those crazy Canadians, always doing good things . . .

All of the things you mentioned above have a different set of pros/cons, so just make sure you know what you're getting yourself into.

For instance, if you do ANG while in college, it's likely that you'll have to deploy sometime in the next 2 years. That could stall your college education and delay your matriculation into med school. If you're cool with that, then forge ahead, it could be a very worthwhile and maturing experience.

If you do ROTC but dont get into med school, then you'll have to serve in the military (probably in a non-medical capacity), for 3-5 years (depending on your contract, and when they decide to let you go). Again, if you're ok with that possibility, go ahead and do ROTC. Also if you do ROTC + USUHS, you'll pretty much be in it for the long haul (ie a 20 yr career).

Oh, and would advise taking a break (1-2 yrs) in between college and med school, especially if you decide to go the MDPhD route, it's a long haul! good luck . . .
 
DrMetal said:
Damn those crazy Canadians, always doing good things . . .

All of the things you mentioned above have a different set of pros/cons, so just make sure you know what you're getting yourself into.

For instance, if you do ANG while in college, it's likely that you'll have to deploy sometime in the next 2 years. That could stall your college education and delay your matriculation into med school. If you're cool with that, then forge ahead, it could be a very worthwhile and maturing experience.

If you do ROTC but dont get into med school, then you'll have to serve in the military (probably in a non-medical capacity), for 3-5 years (depending on your contract, and when they decide to let you go). Again, if you're ok with that possibility, go ahead and do ROTC. Also if you do ROTC + USUHS, you'll pretty much be in it for the long haul (ie a 20 yr career).

Oh, and would advise taking a break (1-2 yrs) in between college and med school, especially if you decide to go the MDPhD route, it's a long haul! good luck . . .
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Thanks for the advice DrMetal. Keep the input coming everyone!
 
Some more info:

I would prefer to graduate early (may 2011). I am taking physics my senior year, the MCAT spring of my senior year, and then I will have a year off before matriculation. I think deployment would be a great break before applying to MD/PhD.
 
Okay, so here's my story. Went to undergrad at a community college and then transferred to NYU. My first 2.5 years, my grades were good (3.7). Then I decided to not let my academics get in the way of my fun in NYC or work my senior year, and the grades showed. Needless to say, I graduated with a degree in Chemistry. I always wanted to be a pediatrician. Just absolutely love working with kids, but couldn't imagine ever teaching (the pay sucks and it's too monotonous). Anyhow, I decided I was tired of school and got into banking. I quickly climbed the corporate ladder, completed executive banking school (excelled), and am currently an executive/VP for a community bank (youngest vp by 10 yrs). But I hate it! It's been 10 years in the business.

I find myself regretting slacking off and putting off med school. I figured I screwed it up pretty bad so why bother, but I just needed a break from the "academic" world to get some real life experience in the "real world". And I think I've gotten that.

Recently, I met with the Dean of Admissions for UW Med prompted by some soul searching given everything going on in banking. He advised me that I should go back and take some undergrad classes, take a MCAT practice test, and then apply...the journey would take 10 years when it's all said and done. That's a long time to be poor!

I have thought about USUHS. Many of my triathlete friends are ARMY doctors at Madigan who quite frankly have discouraged me from pursuing medicine for the most part for many reasons (it's not worth it).

I am 35, wife is a teacher, and she is supportive of me going back to pursue a career in medicine. I grew up in the military, and was always planning to go the HPSP or USUHS route way back when. My question to you folks out there is this: Am I nucking futs? (I do Ironman events, so you may already think I am). I can stay in banking and do the corporate executive/management stuff, or give up the big salary and pursue medicine. I would want to go the USUHS route I believe.
 
tridoctor01 said:
Okay, so here's my story. Went to undergrad at a community college and then transferred to NYU. My first 2.5 years, my grades were good (3.7). Then I decided to not let my academics get in the way of my fun in NYC or work my senior year, and the grades showed. Needless to say, I graduated with a degree in Chemistry. I always wanted to be a pediatrician. Just absolutely love working with kids, but couldn't imagine ever teaching (the pay sucks and it's too monotonous). Anyhow, I decided I was tired of school and got into banking. I quickly climbed the corporate ladder, completed executive banking school (excelled), and am currently an executive/VP for a community bank (youngest vp by 10 yrs). But I hate it! It's been 10 years in the business.

I find myself regretting slacking off and putting off med school. I figured I screwed it up pretty bad so why bother, but I just needed a break from the "academic" world to get some real life experience in the "real world". And I think I've gotten that.

Recently, I met with the Dean of Admissions for UW Med prompted by some soul searching given everything going on in banking. He advised me that I should go back and take some undergrad classes, take a MCAT practice test, and then apply...the journey would take 10 years when it's all said and done. That's a long time to be poor!

I have thought about USUHS. Many of my triathlete friends are ARMY doctors at Madigan who quite frankly have discouraged me from pursuing medicine for the most part for many reasons (it's not worth it).

I am 35, wife is a teacher, and she is supportive of me going back to pursue a career in medicine. I grew up in the military, and was always planning to go the HPSP or USUHS route way back when. My question to you folks out there is this: Am I nucking futs? (I do Ironman events, so you may already think I am). I can stay in banking and do the corporate executive/management stuff, or give up the big salary and pursue medicine. I would want to go the USUHS route I believe.
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Sounds like you want to go into medicine for the right reasons. I also don't think your thought process is nuts but odds are you woundn't start medical school till you are maybe 37, add 4 years, + 7 for USUHS and 3 for Peds and you are looking at age 51 before you can get out - and 61 to retire. You also have to figure kids and the wife into the mix. Assuming you want kids - is your wife resilient enough to essentially be a single parent for 7 years plus a deployment? Not discouraging you but just hoping you don't end up locked into something you regret.

If if were me, I'd go civilian route - not b/c I don't like the military but because you are starting later in life.
 
tridoctor01 said:
Okay, so here's my story. Went to undergrad at a community college and then transferred to NYU. My first 2.5 years, my grades were good (3.7). Then I decided to not let my academics get in the way of my fun in NYC or work my senior year, and the grades showed. Needless to say, I graduated with a degree in Chemistry. I always wanted to be a pediatrician. Just absolutely love working with kids, but couldn't imagine ever teaching (the pay sucks and it's too monotonous). Anyhow, I decided I was tired of school and got into banking. I quickly climbed the corporate ladder, completed executive banking school (excelled), and am currently an executive/VP for a community bank (youngest vp by 10 yrs). But I hate it! It's been 10 years in the business.

I find myself regretting slacking off and putting off med school. I figured I screwed it up pretty bad so why bother, but I just needed a break from the "academic" world to get some real life experience in the "real world". And I think I've gotten that.

Recently, I met with the Dean of Admissions for UW Med prompted by some soul searching given everything going on in banking. He advised me that I should go back and take some undergrad classes, take a MCAT practice test, and then apply...the journey would take 10 years when it's all said and done. That's a long time to be poor!

I have thought about USUHS. Many of my triathlete friends are ARMY doctors at Madigan who quite frankly have discouraged me from pursuing medicine for the most part for many reasons (it's not worth it).

I am 35, wife is a teacher, and she is supportive of me going back to pursue a career in medicine. I grew up in the military, and was always planning to go the HPSP or USUHS route way back when. My question to you folks out there is this: Am I nucking futs? (I do Ironman events, so you may already think I am). I can stay in banking and do the corporate executive/management stuff, or give up the big salary and pursue medicine. I would want to go the USUHS route I believe.
Click to expand...

What do you hate about your job?
 
Gastrapathy said:
What do you hate about your job?
Click to expand...
For me, it is very administrative, too much sitting behind a desk, not really interested in "banking"...such a commoditized product. Not a very innovative industry. Always wanted a career helping/advising people. Considered "financial advising", but again, that is very limiting in the breadth of what medicine offers.
 
I have a question about the age requirement.

It says if you were a prior commissioned officer, you can add your years of service to the age cutoff (up to 35).

So does this mean my enlisted service won't count and I'll have to get the over-30 age waiver?

I would likely be 32 when I apply, so starting at the age of 33, but I'll have 8-9 years of active duty enlisted service.

Seems unfair that they would leave out the enlisted people who want to apply, so I'm hoping they just forgot to type that part in. But this is the military we are talking about, so who knows.
 
superbike81 said:
I have a question about the age requirement.

It says if you were a prior commissioned officer, you can add your years of service to the age cutoff (up to 35).

So does this mean my enlisted service won't count and I'll have to get the over-30 age waiver?

I would likely be 32 when I apply, so starting at the age of 33, but I'll have 8-9 years of active duty enlisted service.

Seems unfair that they would leave out the enlisted people who want to apply, so I'm hoping they just forgot to type that part in. But this is the military we are talking about, so who knows.
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You're fine. USUHS grants age-waivers very liberally. There are plenty of students here in their 30s, with prior O- and E-time. Just apply as early as possible in the cycle, that's key.
 
Hello all! I just interviewed yesterday. I'm strongly considering attending USUHS if I am accepted. Can anybody suggest the best area for a new student to live? I know the housing allowance is around 1,600, but from my short visit to the area I can tell this is a very expensive place to live.

Its my goal to not get in over my head then have to deal with financial struggles on top of my education. Also, it would be nice to save a little money while I'm at it.

Thanks!
 
Situation: I'm currently an 0-3 with about 6 years in (Surface Warfare Officer) Undergrad in Psych from Univ of Pittsburgh, 5 years of sea duty, now finishing up a year tour in Iraq. I'm up for my shore duty and really want to apply to USUHS for their Clinical Psych (PhD program). I figured due to my low undergrad GPA and lack of academic recommendations (I went to a huge university years ago and mainly focused on NROTC) would drastically reduce my chances, but I ran into an MD out here who really thinks I should give it a shot. This is really what I want to do. I enjoy being in the Navy, but I dont want to spend all my time out to sea as a SWO (plus being a single 27 year old female wanting a family some day doesnt help). Being a psychologist, helping sailors-its something that excites me, and I wouldnt mind a career in the Navy if its doing something I love (not being a SWO!) Any current or prior USUHS students have opinions on my chances? Should I go for it? Also, since I'm an 0-3 now, would I go back to 0-1 for the whole 5 years, I heard somewhere I would go back to 0-2 for the first two years then back to 0-3 is that true? I would love any advice, thanks!!
 
SWO2010 said:
Situation: I'm currently an 0-3 with about 6 years in (Surface Warfare Officer) Undergrad in Psych from Univ of Pittsburgh, 5 years of sea duty, now finishing, thanks!!
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SWOdom isnt so fun huh? The heck you say ...

I dont think any of the clinical psych students monitor this thread. If youd like, PM me your name and email and Ill try to pass it along to one of them.
 
Does anybody know if the waitlist at USUHS is first on first off, or do they take the best applicant off of the waitlist no matter when they interviewed?
 
Hi SDN,
I'm planning on applying to USUHS this summer, and it's by far and away my first choice. So, for those of you who have intimate knowledge of the school, I was wondering if you'd be willing to weigh in on my chances of acceptance...

I just got my mcat scores the other day, and they weren't stellar - 25. 👎 (9v, 8p, 8b). I'm going to take it again towards the end of summer in case I must apply again next year.
My gpa, on the other hand, is a 3.87. 👍 (103 credits taken so far, only have 2 B+ and one B.) My major is kind of unorthodox for a premed (philosophy), so I'm not sure if that'll work in my favor or not when applying to USUHS.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!
 
TheUntold said:
Hi SDN,
I'm planning on applying to USUHS this summer, and it's by far and away my first choice. So, for those of you who have intimate knowledge of the school, I was wondering if you'd be willing to weigh in on my chances of acceptance...

I just got my mcat scores the other day, and they weren't stellar - 25. 👎 (9v, 8p, 8b). I'm going to take it again towards the end of summer in case I must apply again next year.
My gpa, on the other hand, is a 3.87. 👍 (103 credits taken so far, only have 2 B+ and one B.) My major is kind of unorthodox for a premed (philosophy), so I'm not sure if that'll work in my favor or not when applying to USUHS.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated!
Click to expand...
25 might be a show stopper, unless you are prior service. I know several people who got in with 28ish, though. I'd say retake it as soon as you know you can get a 30. Good luck.
 
WoWdoc said:
Does anybody know if the waitlist at USUHS is first on first off, or do they take the best applicant off of the waitlist no matter when they interviewed?
Click to expand...


they take the best applicant. not necessarily who was on the list first
 
I was just looking at the list of hospitals we were given at the interview which we could rotate at 3rd and 4th years...am I ******ed and just missing Balboa or is it not on there and it is not an option for USUHS people?
 
Hello incoming MS1s! Congratulations to all of you who have been accepted. I am finishing up my MS1 year and it has been a lot of hard work, but great times. Please feel free to PM me with any questions regarding your upcoming schedule. I am a non-prior Army student.

I posted this on here a while back and got some good responses, but I was unsure of our move-out date. Now that this has been solidified, it want to post again letting you know of the town home we are currently renting that will be available as of June 1, 2010.

The townhouse is located in Gaithersburg (Montgomery Village area), just off of exit 11 of I-270. It takes about 15-20 minutes to get to school. It is in a very family-friendly area. The complex has a lake with a running trail. There is a one-car garage and back patio for grilling, etc.

The layout is as follows:

Top floor: carpeted
Master bedroom
Master bathroom
2nd bedroom
3rd bedroom/office
full bathroom

Main floor: all hardwood
Living room with fireplace
Dining room
Kitchen (granite countertops/stainless appliances/completely updated
half bath

Lower level: carpeted
Very large family room
4th bedroom
bathroom
walk-out to patio

The owner is a USN USUHS grad living in San Diego. He is very easy to work with and a nice guy.

The rent is $1800/mo + electric and water.

If you have questions or want some pictures, please let me know. If you can contact me, I will get you in touch with the owner to set up lease details.

Our lease is up in July, but we are looking for somebody to take over starting June 1, 2010 because we bought a house and will be moving at that time and don't want to pay a mortgage AND rent.

Finding nice places can be difficult around here. Please contact me ASAP and let me know if you would like some more info, or just ask questions about school/area/commute, etc.

Look forward to seeing you next year at USUHS and congratulations again on your acceptance.

-Dave
USUHS c/o 2013
 
I currently have close to 12 years AD as an Officer in the Navy. I am guessing that the age requirements are waiverable like everything else in the military. Does anyone have a gauge as to how waiverable? I will be close to 36 or so after I finish my aviation DH tour (and they won't let me out of that early). So if I was accepted would be 37 by start date. Has anyone been accepted that old?

Another issue would be losing rank. I LOVE the military but the biggest pill to swallow doing this would be becoming an O-1 again. Has there been any O-4/5's that have gone this route and adjusted well?
 
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